Memphis, TN – The Shelby County Sheriff’s Office has reported 12 in-custody deaths so far in 2025, according to a newly released update from Sheriff Floyd Bonner, Jr. The announcement, issued Wednesday, outlines medical examiner findings, demographic trends, and systemic pressures contributing to the rise.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, causes of death this year include fentanyl toxicity, suicide, pneumonia, cardiovascular complications, and undetermined factors pending autopsy. Several individuals passed away while receiving medical care at local hospitals. Autopsy results remain pending for four cases: Dalton Goddard, Antonio First, Christopher Steele, and Tiffany Dukes.
Sheriff Bonner emphasized that many of the challenges linked to in-custody outcomes begin long before individuals enter the jail system. “Many of the people who enter the jail are already carrying the heavy weight of poverty, chronic illness, addiction, and a lifetime of limited access to healthcare,” Bonner said. “These struggles don’t start in jail custody—they begin in the neighborhoods we all share.”
The Sheriff’s Office also reiterated that it does not control medical care inside the jail. Healthcare is provided by a third-party contractor selected by the mayor’s office, not SCSO. Corrections deputies are not medical professionals and do not oversee treatment protocols or staffing.
The report further notes a rise in jail bookings countywide. In September, arrests at both the 201 Poplar facility and Jail East increased by 14% compared with last year, and by October—after the launch of the Memphis Safe Task Force—arrests rose 42% from the prior October. Officials say the surge is putting additional strain on staffing and inmate housing capacity.
A link to the full in-custody deaths report is available on the SCSO website.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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